Neal's The Hair Studio & Day

TERRIBLE!!! Purchased a gift card for a massage. When I tried to redeem it they told me that they no longer offered Massage. I asked for a refund and they told me that I had to use the gift card for ""other services"". I purchased a gift card SPECIFICALLY for a massage....I don't want a Haircut. more

Hi. I went to Neil's hoping to get a decent hairstyle, and was very dissatisfied. I took about 8 different pictures of what type of style i wanted. I also, to my despair, i mentioned i might be willing to try bangs. He tossed aside the pictures i brought. He said he could do it and make it look wonderful, He knew some tricks that would work great. I told him as long as it did not include a ""magic marker"". \r \r Ok, im a woman slightly past my mid forties and yes, I have fine hair with some hair loss. I went and got my hair washed, sat back down and he cut my hair. Never once did i notice him trim my split ends, even anything out or give me much of a style. He preceded to volatize my hair, and use a hot roller on my hair. He also gave me tips on how to do this at home. During which time he asked me if i would wear a wig ? I told him definitively no. The other stylist there agreed with me in saying, she would want to wear her own hair too. I should have jumped out of his chair right then. Even if i do wear wigs, Im in the chair trying to getting a hair style/cut ? Is he capable of styling some ones hair or wanting to style wigs ? \r \r He then took me the front and wanted to apply makeup to my head for cover up. When i told him earlier no magic marker. Yes, i do know and understand they make products for just such a thing. I also know my hair can be styled in a way to help hide my flaws. Any decent stylist should be able to handle such a task. I would not allow him to apply face make up to my head. \r \r He asked me if i liked the style. I asked him if he was done. He led me back to his chair. Brushed my hair twice to the side, realizing he only had a bang to work with. Took off my apron and showed me to the front to pay. \r \r I called him the next day and told him i was very dissatisfied with his service. Yes, i am upset and very displeased. He offered to to add some layers ? Why would he ask to add layers after he styled my hair ? Because my hair has no style. I told him i did not feel comfortable sitting in his chair. He responded by telling me good bye and hung up. \r \r My over all experience. In the 30 minutes i spent in his shop, getting a wash and style. For the same 30 minutes hair style/cut experience, go to Hair Cuttery. If this is how he deals with unsatisfied customers. My best advice is not to be a customer of his at all. \r more

Okay so Neal is great, he's funny and cool. BUT while I was getting my haircut he was completely distracted. Kept stopping to make jokes and have conversations and at one point stopped to watch a video on youtube. This would be fine if he didn't destroy my hair. From a distance, my hair looks fine. I have long thick brown silky hair. I've had my hair thinned before so when he asked I said yeah sure. Well, he thinned it with a razor from the top which means I NOW have A LOT of thin 2"" hairs on the top of my head which stand up whenever I part it. Literally, I have a poofy part. It's really upsetting. This is the first time I went to Neal's and the first time in YEARS that I've had a bad haircut. Unfortunately, I can't even have it fixed. What's worse is that I used to have a pixie cut and this is the first time my hair was been this long in 5 years and now I might have to get it cut short again just so I didn't look like an idiot because of Neal's horrible haircut. more

I walked into Neal's with straight brown hair to my waist and walked out with a stunning and sophisticated red bob that fits my face, body, personality - you name it! Neal knew just exactly what I needed. It's the most amazing haircut of my life - not only because of Neal's ability to charm a girl with shape, color, and texture, but also because I have made a life transition from hearing aids to the absence of hearing aids, and Neal was the director of my sassy makeover. From my very first step inside the studio to the grand studio tour, Neal proved to me that he is a one-man Broadway show and he also is the old-fashioned substance you want to see in the modern world but often don't - he's 10 of 10. The staff members at Neal's are friendly, warm, compassionate, and (most importantly) cohesive. What's more is that Neal makes all of his clients feel like family. He reintroduced me to the dating world - a makeover, a date, tips on just about any worthwhile attraction around - the care Neal put into getting to know me means more than he can know. I've been able to say ""I'm content"" for quite some time, but I felt genuinely happy at Neal's, and I feel genuinely happy still. My heart and mind are so grateful that my universe and Neal's collided. My world is alive with new sounds, new music, new concepts, new inspirations - and if I could advertise this studio on every billboard across the state of Maryland, I would ask for all of the surrounding states to join in as well. In short, Neal's is the only studio you need to remember. more

I super-duper-times-ten whole-heartedly recommend Neal's Mt. Vernon salon experience to anyone with a pulse and a smile. \r \r (if you're the type who wants to anonymously and quietly slip in and out for a haircut, this may not be the place for you...) \r \r New to Baltimore - after living two years in Paris - I read a very positive Citysearch review about Neal's from a woman who had also moved here from Paris. \r \r She loved Neal's and I figured if she did, I would too. \r \r From the moment I walked in for my first appointment, I felt whisked away backstage at a grand Broadway theatre. Walls were festooned with musical playbills, cabaret posters and photos of stars who came to life through their music playing in the salon and spa. \r \r Matching the personality of those stars, was the co-owner and my hairdresser, Neal himself. Star-like, but not full of himself, he was also eager to learn about me. As soon as he learned I'd lived in Paris, he even picked up his cell and called Judy, the woman whose review I had read, and set us up for a lunch! \r \r Not only did he make that introduction, he also made three Josephine Baker cds for me, and another kid's cd for my toddler daughter, Lulu! \r \r I practiced French with another kind-hearted stylist, Ed; set up a manicure with Neal's long-time partner and co-owner of the salon, Joe, and had a fabulous shampoo from Celeste. \r \r And, Oh, yes! Neal gave me a terrific shaped-up fresh cut and new color! \r \r I love it and I love the new friends I have found here in Baltimore. \r \r Thank you all! with love, g more

Even though they were leaving for the day and had already shut down the computers, Neal still took my call to book an appointment for the following day. My appointment was today, and even though I didn't have a very good description of what I wanted, Neal knew exactly what I needed. This is the cut my hair has been longing for its entire life! Afterward, he even showed me a few simple updos I could do on my own and gave me hairpins to try them out on my own. more

I was a new customer and my hair was about 1 inch all over, I went to get it buzzed (nothing fancy folks) and I was shocked that I cost almost 50$...first Neil was suppose to do my hair buit when I arrived I was passed off to Ed, who was amazing and awesome and fun to talk to . The girl at the counter was extremely rude during my check in and check out...then ..I was forced to get a shampoo that I didnt need, again 1 inch hair and I just came from the shower...then when I saw the bill..I was outraged...Get it together idiots... more

After living in Paris for twenty years I returned to Baltimore. I was really accustomed to having my hair cut there, and like French bread you can get a good (if expensive) one almost everywhere. A friend suggested Neal's. I walked in and my life changed. After much discussion about my ""French hair"", Neal changed the color, cut and products I use. I have never looked back. I have to say that I cannot really do anything with my hair myself. Everything is in the cut. All I do is towel dry. Wash and wear hair. A woman who was sitting behind me at the theater commented on how good my hair looked. I love it! In addition, every time I go to Neal's I am assured of a warm welcome and laughing until I cry. The music is great especially when you and Neal sing along. I sometimes schedule haircuts and color just because I'm feeling low. I have recommended Neal's to all my friends and colleagues. No one who has gone has been disappointed. Pros: Advice, atmosphere, how I look Cons: Parking can be difficult more

I went to Neal's 4 or 5 times and because of me another 4 people became clients. However I am a student and they have a discount on Tuesdays. So today 12/13/11 I went in as usual with some proof of enrollment but as explained by the secretary ""it does not have your name on it"" I gave her my id and also my insurance card. Even tried to get online on my phone but unfortunately the website did not work properly on the phone. So, even though I have been to Neal's 4 or 5 times and I have brought other friends, they were not flexible enough to still give me my appointment. I should say that I even heard Ed (that cuts my hair always, recognized me and knows who i am) saying to the secretary ""you could loose your job"". Bottom line is they did not want to see me at 6pm and found a way of sending me away. I am very disappointed and will not go back there ever. more

I have always hated getting my hair cut because I never come out with what I want but whenever I go to neal's he knows exactly what he is doing and entertains you while he is doing it! Never been disappointed with his work and everyone is always super-friendly. Neal really takes pride in hair cutting and it shows in the haircut. It is a great break to just take some time for myself and relax and have plenty of laughs! Pros: Neal knows what his customers want! more

I decided to try out a new place to save some money. Well, I learned the hard way not to cut corners when getting your hair highlighted!! \r \r I had asked for very natural highlights (I'm dirty blonde) and my hair ended up being bright yellow. Not only was the color the opposite of what I wanted, the highlights were thick and stripey. They started a half inch from my scalp, and my part looked like he put a cup on top of it and highlighted around it. So picture this... dark brown part, tiger stripes ( that already looked like I had 1/2 inch roots) and neon yellow hair. IN ADDITION to this-- when I picked up my hair on the sides and in the back, I had CLUMPS of white dye where he had just globbed it on. My hair looked like a drunk 5 year old did it. I should have said something right then and there...but I didn't because I couldn't really tell what my hair looked like when I left because he did not dry it with round brush so it was a huge frizzy mess and I had to immediately put it into a ponytail. Needless to say, the next morning I went to Studio 921 in Federal Hill where they did a fantastic job at restoring my hair (but it cost me $190). She said it was one of the worst highlighting jobs she had seen. \r \r That is my personal experience at this ""salon""--which by the way, if you are used to going to nice salons you are in for a shock because this place looks like a hole in the wall. \r \r It is true that everyone (almost) was super nice and the owner is really friendly, but that doesn't mean that someone who obviously does not know how to do foil highlights should be doing them. When I say almost-- when I was leaving the salon, I asked the assistant the best way to get back towards the downtown area...she began to draw a map and drew a squiggly line and pushed it in my face and laughed at me. Wow for customer service. \r Pros: cheaper Cons: read my review! more

I was visiting from out of town, and went here for a formal hairdo on the recommendation of a friend who enjoys the sylists' personalities. While they certainly were personalities, three weeks, 2 hot oil treatments, 5 deep conditioning treatments later, my hair is still a crisp, damaged mess. I have never been so disappointed. Pros: nice music Cons: PERMANENT damage to my hair!!! more

Neal's Spa/Salon made this Atlanta man feel totally at home. I came in for a single service but ended up with three. I could not resist spending time with such fantastic people. The skill level and attention to detail is second to none. What a shame Atlanta cannot boast such a Spa/Salon. Baltimore is LUCKY to have such an establishment. Pros: Staff, Skills, Services, VERY FRIENDLY Cons: As hard as I try to find falut, I ame up empty on this one! more

I tried Neal's after recommendations, and I would never recommend receiving a haircut there. I had an important trip ahead of me, and I wished to have a fresh hair cut. After explaining the very simple men's haircut I wanted, I quickly received a military-style crew cut - entirely too short. As others commented, the atmosphere is jovial and friendly, but I am accustomed to more attention being addressed to a new client's hair than social antics. Pros: light-hearted, fun staff Cons: not listening to clients' needs more

I've been going to Neal's for quite awhile now. I go to Joe, who is Neal's partner. My hair can be a nightmare - very curly and thick. Joe knows exactly how to cut and style my hair and has even given me valuable tips/essons so I can recreate the look. He also has the patience of a Saint and never fails to answer any question I have, no matter how ridiculous they might be. They don't try to sell you products you don't need either. If you are not completely satisfied, they will happily correct whatever the issue is, at no additional cost...although, I've never had an issue! Three of my friends also go there, to different stylists and all are as pleased as I am. It can be quite a circus in there, with the different eclectic personalities, so be prepared to be entertained. Quiet it's not. Pros: Great stylists; don't try to sell you things you don't need - fun people work there Cons: Not for shy and retiring personalities more

Not an ""inexpensive"" salon as some others have reviewed, my friend was charged over $300 for a highlight and cut and she looked terrible, but was told in a few weeks she would like it. The cut was sloppy, and it was a strange mix of three colors, she looked like a calico cat. I went in for a pedicure and was charged $65!!!\r \r Would not recommend this place to anyone I liked.\r \r Pros: Looks like it could be a hidden gem Cons: Looks are deceiving more

Take this from someone who is REALLY picky about hair: This salon is WONDERFUL. It's down-to-earth, unpretentious, and very artsy (with awesome posters and great music)! The staff is friendly and fun. If you're looking for ""swanky"", this isn't your spot. But who needs swanky and overpriced, when you can go to a place that caters to your hair needs at an affordable price and high comfort? Neal is great-- he listens to you and does EXACTLY what you request. You know how there are some stylists who only pretend to listen? Not Neal! He's also very funny and outgoing. You'll love his energy! Highly recommended and lots of fun! Pros: Fun, Cozy Ambience, Great staff! Cons: Small (May be a disadvantage for those looking for a lot of ""space"") more

This is the first time I've been to this salon, although I've known about it for years. It is truly a fun place to get your hair done, and the entire staff had me and my boyfriend in stitches the entire time we were there. \r \r The place is fairly small, and is decorated with an eclectic mix of old dressing tables, barber chairs and tons of musicals posters. Expect to hear songs from musicals while there, both on the CDs being played, and being sung by Neal himself.\r \r Wonderful bunch of people, very friendly and warm and will make you feel right at home.\r \r Unfortunately, my initial hair experience wasn't the best. My dye color turned out to be RED RED RED, even though I specified that I wanted only a touch of red to my normal dark brown. My cut was fine, I asked for nice, thick bangs and that's exactly what I got. There was too much length taken off, though, but it's hair and will grown back. My cut and color came to $118 without tip. I do have long hair, so I don't know if that's a general price, or if shorter hair would be less.\r \r Not to worry. A phone call two days later had me back in the chair at Neal's hands and he was able to tone it down easily and without complaint, attitude, or extra cost. He seemed happy to go out of his way to make sure I was happy (unlike a recent experience with a new salon in Hampden, which shall remain nameless).\r \r I left there a satisfied customer and would easily recommend Neal's to anyone out ther more

I'm sort of neurotic about my hair. And I know I'm hard to please. I went to Neal for a body wave perm just to try it out. Not many people know how to perm Asian hair with non-traditional style and so far none of the stylists I encountered gave me the hair I wanted. First of all, Neal is a sweetheart, so the experience was quite fun. As for the perm he gave me, well as usual I thought it was too curly, because all I wanted was loose waves. But he reassured me that I would be happy after a few weeks. And Voila, it's been three weeks and I love the loose waves my hair has now, granted I did have to deep condition my hair constantly after the perm. But it does look good now. Plus Neal gave me two Josephine Baker CDs which I absolutely adore. Now how many stylists out there would give you music to bring home? The price wasn't bad either, it was actually the least pricy perm I've gotten in years. I highly recommend Neals. I can't wait to go back to get a trim in a couple months. Pros: Great styling, good price more

You couldn't pay me to get another manicure at this place. The manicurist did not file my nails or do anything to my cuticles. It looked like a 5 year old gave me a french manicure. There was nail polish on my skin and the white part was covering about half of my nail. It was alos $21. WASTE OF $$$$ DO NOT GET A MANICURE HERE....YOU WILL BE SORRY..... more